Reference News Network, October 30 report - According to the U.S. "Defense News" website on October 28, German Rheinmetall and European Missile Group said that after years of effort by these two contractors, the German Navy may have a laser weapon available for installation in 2029.

The two companies said they have completed a one-year sea trial, and will now hand over a demonstration weapon to the government for more testing at the Laser Capability Center of the Federal Armed Forces Weapons and Ammunition Technology Center in Meppen, Germany.

The statements from the two companies said this is a "significant step forward."

The statement said: "Multiple successful tests were conducted on the 'Sachsen' class frigates, proving the tracking capability, effectiveness, and accuracy of the laser weapon under actual operational conditions, which is a first in Europe. These tests included over 100 live ammunition trials and more tracking trials. It has been proven that the demonstration weapon has a high response speed and accuracy in operations against drones, thereby significantly improving the effectiveness of defending against drones."

The statement also said: "Based on this, by 2029, a usable laser weapon system can be provided to the German Navy, which will provide a powerful and cost-effective complement to conventional guided missiles."

According to the statement, the two companies have been working together since 2019 to develop a high-energy laser effect. Rheinmetall is responsible for the targeting system and how to install and integrate the weapon on the frigate, while the European Missile Group is responsible for the tracking and control aspects.

The statement said: "This laser weapon system provides new possibilities for counter-operations against non-cooperative targets. It can precisely and effectively destroy drones and other small, fast-moving targets, addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time."

The development of the laser weapon by these two companies seems to be proceeding as planned. In September 2024, the two companies signed a laser weapon cooperation agreement to jointly develop a maritime system and bring it to market within the next five to six years. (Translation by Hu Xue)

The German Navy's "Sachsen" class frigate "Hamburg" (AFP)

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